Enugu State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure just announced tough new rules to make sure all projects, current and future, meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and professionalism.
Since the Ministry oversees over 80% of the state’s development, they’re really pushing to ensure that only properly registered and licensed professionals in fields like engineering, architecture, and surveying are managing projects. This applies to everything from roads to buildings and other crucial infrastructure.
During a big meeting with key professional groups—including the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Architects, Surveyors, and more—the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ben Osy Okoh, made it clear: collaboration between the government and these professional bodies is absolutely essential.
“This meeting is all about continuing our commitment to top-notch quality and professionalism across the board,” the Commissioner stated. He emphasized that every project must be handled by licensed professionals who will sign agreements taking full responsibility. If they ever leave a project, the Ministry needs to know immediately.
He also revealed exciting plans to upgrade laboratory facilities. This means better testing for construction materials and stricter checks on ongoing work to ensure everything meets design and safety standards. The Ministry will even team up with professional bodies for training and hold quarterly reviews to keep things on track.
Citizens and professionals are encouraged to report any shady practices or poor-quality work through dedicated phone lines. This is a real call to action!
The Commissioner praised Governor Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for his strong leadership and vision. The Governor’s commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure and boosting transparency is clearly driving these reforms. Okoh noted that the Governor’s vision for a modern, smart Enugu demands adherence to professional standards, and the Ministry is fully on board with this transformative agenda.
To boost technical oversight, Enugu has brought in Ette-Aro and Partners, a renowned civil engineering consulting firm with over 50 years of experience on major projects in Nigeria and beyond. They’ll be providing high-level technical support, quality assurance, and expert supervision to ensure every project hits global benchmarks.
“We’re not just stopping shoddy workmanship; we’re going after substandard construction materials,” the Commissioner warned. “We won’t tolerate inferior products flooding the market.” He added that they’ll work closely with groups like the Standards Organisation of Nigeria and material dealers to achieve this. He urged all professionals and stakeholders to support these changes, stating that Enugu’s development won’t compromise on quality.
“This is a pivotal moment. We invite everyone to join us on this journey and help build a stronger, safer Enugu, in line with the Governor’s vision,” he concluded.
Engr. B. Ndidi Edeh, Chairman of the Enugu State Technical Committee of COREN, was thrilled, expressing his long-standing hope for the government to take the lead on quality enforcement. “For the first time, government is in the driver’s seat!” he exclaimed. He thanked the Governor for appointing Engr. Ben Osy Okoh, calling him a man of “outstanding quality, legacy, and attention to detail.” Edeh believes Enugu is lucky to have him during this period of infrastructure revolution and is confident he’ll make a huge difference, pledging COREN’s full support: “We are ready to follow your lead. You have the answers, and you have earned our trust.”
Engr. Peter Awunde, COREN’s Regional Head for the South East, called for a re-evaluation of contractors to ensure only qualified firms with certified professionals handle public projects. He pushed for better procurement processes and encouraged contractors to hire skilled engineers. Professionals fully supported the “Flag It Out” initiative for reporting poor work, stressing that the goal isn’t to blame, but to work together with the government to improve infrastructure quality through proactive oversight.
Dr. Charles C. Ngene, from the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, urged the State Government to ensure developments stick to the existing Enugu Master Plan for sustainable growth. He praised the government’s commitment to involving experts and pledged his institute’s full backing, emphasizing that good planning upfront prevents wasted resources and ensures projects last.
The Commissioner welcomed these suggestions, noting that the Ministry is already reviewing contractor profiles and procurement procedures to ensure only capable, certified, and well-equipped firms get public contracts. He promised close collaboration with COREN and other professional bodies to boost capacity building and promote the hiring of skilled engineers for all projects.
On urban planning, he highlighted that the Ministry will work closely with the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners to align developments with the Enugu Master Plan, ensuring projects are sustainable, forward-thinking, and meet the population’s needs. He added that town planners’ expertise will be crucial for the development of the New Enugu Smart City, which promises to be a game-changer for cities globally.